14 Day Incredible Turkey & Greece Premium Small Group Tour
This tour features a combination of escorted and independent travel. Part of your journey will be enjoyed as a group experience, led by expert tour leaders or local guides. The remainder is self-guided—whether by rail, cruise, or overland—allowing you the freedom to travel between destinations independently and explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
✓ Limited Time Offer – Add return international airfares from only $1999
✓ Intimate small group experience in Turkey with up to 20 guests
✓ Incredible sightseeing including culinary delights in Istanbul, the battlefields of Gallipoli, ancient Troy, the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, picture-perfect Santorini, and sun-drenched Mykonos
✓ Domestic flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia
✓ 7 nights in centrally located, 4-star accommodation
✓ 1 night stay in deluxe, 5-star accommodation
✓ 6-day cruise on the Aegean Sea with Celestyal Cruises – including select drinks with meals, entertainment, port charges and gratuities, and discounted shore excursions
✓ Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ Fully escorted touring experience in Turkey by a professional, English-speaking guide
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Turkey! You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Istanbul. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you see fit. Tonight you will have a welcome meeting in your hotel reception at approximately 7pm.
Special Information
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel's discretion.
After breakfast, we depart Istanbul for a scenic drive along the picturesque Marmara Sea coastline, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way. Our journey leads us to the legendary city of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in myth and history. Here, we explore the ancient city ruins and stand before the famed Trojan Horse, a symbol of one of the greatest tales of war and deception. As we wander through the remnants of this once-mighty city, we relive the epic story of the Spartan Queen Helen and her Trojan Prince Paris.
From Troy, we continue to Çanakkale, a charming coastal town where we settle in for the night. Enjoy an evening at leisure perhaps with a stroll along the harbour promenade.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
After breakfast, we journey to the historic WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, a site of immense significance and remembrance. Here, we visit the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, and Johnston’s Jolly, where original trenches and tunnels still bear witness to the fierce battles fought on these lands. Standing on these hallowed grounds, we take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and resilience of those who fought here.
Following our time in Gallipoli, we begin our return journey to Istanbul, where you can enjoy a well-deserved evening of rest or take in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, St Sophia Museum and the Hippodrome.
Later tonight you will be picked up from your hotel to join a dinner cruise experience up the Bosphorus. The waterway lies between Europe and Asia and passes under the suspension bridges, providing panoramic views of Ottoman summer palaces, waterside mansions and modern villas lining the coast. A truly memorable experience!
Inspiring Highlights
This morning, we transfer to the airport for our included flight to Cappadocia, a region famed for its otherworldly landscapes and rich history.
Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel, where you can settle in and unwind. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure—perhaps take a stroll through the charming streets, admire the unique rock formations, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting destination. Cappadocia, known for its breathtaking landscapes, is truly a place like no other, and it's sure to leave you with memories that will have you wanting to return again.
To complete this exceptional experience, you’ll spend the night in a carefully selected Cave Hotel, where the charm and character of the region come alive, offering you an unforgettable stay in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 25kg (55 lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed (additional fees are payable directly to the airline).
Today promises another unforgettable highlight! We begin by immersing ourselves in the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, visiting the Göreme Open Air Museum, where ancient cave churches and frescoes bring history to life. We’ll also marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys, unique rock formations that have become synonymous with this extraordinary region. Our adventure continues as we explore the fascinating underground cities, a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers carved deep into the earth.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we embark on a journey along the legendary Silk Road, stopping first at the impressive Sultanhani Caravansary, a beautifully preserved 13th-century resting place for travellers and traders. Continuing on to Konya, we visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the life and teachings of the revered Sufi poet Rumi.
Our travels then take us onward to Pamukkale, home of the stunning white calcium terraces.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
This morning, we journey to the magnificent Travertines of Pamukkale, where the brilliant white calcium terraces create a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. We also explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, once a thriving Roman spa town. Take a moment to dip into the warm, mineral-rich waters of the hot springs, surrounded by the remains of ancient columns—a place once revered for its therapeutic powers.
In the afternoon, enjoy a special demonstration of locally crafted leather goods, showcasing the region's rich artisanal traditions. We then continue our journey to Kuşadası, a beautiful coastal town, where we’ll settle in for the evening.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Departing after breakfast, we begin our day with a guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk along its marble streets, admire the grand theatre, and take in the mystical atmosphere of this once-thriving metropolis. A short distance away, we visit the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, where remnants of its storied past remain.
Continuing our journey, we arrive in Şirince, a former Greek village known for its charming architecture and renowned fruit wines. Strolling through its cobbled streets, we take in the serene ambiance and enjoy a taste of the local flavors.
Our final stop before departure is a traditional carpet weaving village, where we observe artisans at work and learn about the intricate craftsmanship behind Turkey’s famed handwoven carpets.
From here, we transfer to the port terminal to board our cruise, setting sail from Kuşadası by approximately 6:00 PM.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
As we arrive in Heraklion early this morning, you’ll have the opportunity to capture the impressive 16th-century Koules Fortress, standing proudly at the entrance to the harbour. Spend some time soaking in the tranquility of the beautiful waterfront or venture out to explore the scenic Cretan countryside. For those wishing to delve deeper into the island’s rich history, an optional shore excursion to the Palace of Knossos awaits, offering a glimpse into the ancient Minoan civilization that once thrived here.
Special Information
Optional shore excursions will be available once your booking is confirmed.
In the early morning we arrive into the romantic island of Santorini, the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island's calm and tranquillity.
Special Information
Optional shore excursions will be available once your booking is confirmed.
Today we have the day to experience the magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos with its stunning coastline, soft sandy beaches, and rugged rock landscapes. Affectionately known as the “Island of the Winds”, Mykonos is home to the 16th Century windmills that have become iconic landmarks on postcards. The vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the island's culinary delights or take a short boat trip to explore the sacred island of Delos.
Special Information
Optional shore excursions will be available once your booking is confirmed.
Today marks our final island stop of the cruise, with a full day to explore the stunning island of Milos. The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculpted looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create a stunning coastline.
Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages on an optional excursion.
Special Information
Optional shore excursions will be available once your booking is confirmed.
At approximately 9:00am this morning, our ship will arrive at the Port of Piraeus, where you will disembark from your Celestyal Cruise.
Following disembarkation, your tour and cruise experience will conclude.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
To allow for disembarkation and time to get to the airport, we would recommend booking flights departing after 1pm.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Celestyal Cruises
This cruise is operated by our partner Celestyal Cruises on board their new Celestyal Journey ship, launching in September 2023 as the very latest addition to the fleet:
The Celestyal Journey will be at the heart of our commitment to go further and get closer to the incredible destinations we visit and will ensure we put our guests at the forefront of our award-winning Celestyal experience.
Whatever your choice of drink, our 8 new bars offer a diverse selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Grab a beer and catch one of our dazzling daily shows in the ΘEATRO, soak up the electric atmosphere of the Ble Bar and Lounge, or head down to our Martini Bar and enjoy one of our exclusive Signature Cocktails.
With 7 new restaurants and our exclusive Chef’s Table, we’re giving our guests more of what they love: great, authentic food. With options such as Thalassa Restaurant and Leda Casual Dining, every guest is catered to in style. Indulge in our specialty menus for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Cabin Inclusions & Upgrades
Interior Stateroom (IA) - Included
Interior Staterooms at deck 4 (17 sqm) can accommodate up to 4 person(s), with 2 lower beds, 1 upper bed, 1 single or double sofa with bunk beds, bathroom with shower.
Interior Stateroom (IC) - From $163 per person, twin share. Single price on application.
Interior Staterooms at decks 5, 6, 9 and 10 (17 sqm) can accommodate up to 4 person(s), with 2 lower beds, 1 upper bed, 1 single or double sofa with bunk beds, bathroom with shower.
Exterior Stateroom (XB) - From $400 per person, twin share. Single price on application.
Exterior Staterooms at decks 4 and 6 (19 sqm) can accommodate up to 4 person(s), with 2 lower beds, 1 upper bed, 1 single or double sofa with bunk beds, bathroom with shower or bath.
Junior Balcony Suite (SJB) - From $813 per person, twin share. Single price on application.
Junior Balcony Suites at deck 9 (21 sqm) can accommodate up to 2 people and has a bathroom with shower and balcony.
Please note your upgrade request in the 'Special Request' field whilst making your booking. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.
If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section
Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and flights will be added to your booking.
Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:
Baggage
Included baggage differs based on your country of origin. Included baggage will be as per the following:
|
Country of Origin |
Carry-on Baggage |
Checked Baggage |
|
Australia |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
New Zealand |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
United States of America |
15lbs |
45lbs |
|
Canada |
15lbs |
45lbs |
|
India |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
United Kingdom |
7kgs |
20kgs |
Baggage allowances provided by the airline might differ to the values stated above. However limitations are required due to transport storage restrictions on your selected tour or package.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements.
To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service? By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchase to make your request.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
If we can’t fulfill your request and you still wish to proceed with the booking, please select Land Only (excluding UK customers). This will allow you to travel on the land portion of the package without the included airfares. You will then be able to arrange your own flights separately.
FAQs
For more frequently asked questions please view our FAQs section.
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and inspires excellent service.
Over the years we have found that many of our travellers find the need for tipping to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if they don’t have the correct small change. To overcome this, your leader might raise the idea of a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then your tour leader pays the tips as you go. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour returned to group members. This amount is usually €2-4 (AUD$3-6) per person per day. This kitty does not include tips for your leader and crew.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline of €2-4 (AUD$3-6) per person per day can be used. Of course, you are free to tip as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,641.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Minimum 6.
For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Pack your bags and clear your palate; Turkey will satisfy your mind, soul and stomach. Turkey is Muslim...ish Although most citizens identify as Muslim, Turkey is fairly open-minded compared to Morocco or Egypt. It is officially a secular State and no Islamic norms are enforced. Alcohol and tobacco are readily availa...
Partake in this age-old bathing ritual for a full Turkish immersion Few cultural experiences remain as close to its authentic roots the way a Turkish hamam does. Known as a Turkish steam bath, its origin dates back to when the Ottomans took Constantinople (now known as Istanbul) from the Romans in 1450, bringing with...
From cave churches to grand mosques and subterranean cities, Turkey’s sights above and below ground will leave you with something to write home about A fascinating country that needs little introduction, Turkey’s charms are plentiful. From its rich history dating back to the 3rd millennium, 18 UNESCO heritage sites a...
From the moment you arrive, Istanbul pulls you in with its layered skyline, where minarets and domes compete for attention. A city shaped by centuries of empires, it's home to some of the most remarkable vantage points in the world. Whether you're snapping that perfect shot for your photo album or soaking up sunset vie...
Straddling two continents, Turkey is the perfect example of east meets west. But, when is the best time to go? Turkey's fusion of vibrant, age-old cultures, incredible architecture and natural wonders have been wowing travellers for ages. The grand city of Istanbul is like no other – with imposing mosques, palaces...
With more than 40 different kebabs to sample and a vast array of natural ingredients, spices and flavours, it’s no wonder Turkish cuisine is among the best in the world With a culinary history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire, Turkish cuisine is not an easy one to summarise. With its endless variety of dishes –...
New Zealand
United States
Canada
India
